When you picture play therapy, you may imagine a room filled with toys, art supplies and a sandtray. It makes sense to wonder how that experience could work through a screen—especially if your child already spends plenty of time online.
Virtual play-based therapy is not simply asking a child to sit still and talk like an adult. It can use creative, interactive activities within a therapeutic relationship, with the approach shaped around the child's needs and ability to participate.
Rylee Wisniewski, a clinical counseling intern at Illuminate, offers virtual counseling for children ages 8 and older throughout Colorado. A consultation is the place to explore whether this format makes sense for your child.
Request a Child Consultation with Rylee
What might happen in a virtual session?
A session may include conversation, drawing, storytelling, games or other expressive activities. Rylee also uses an interactive virtual playroom when appropriate. The activity is a way to connect and explore; completing it perfectly is not the goal.
For example, a child might draw what a stressful school day feels like, use a story to explore a friendship problem or practice noticing feelings during an interactive activity. These are examples of what creative online work can look like, rather than a fixed plan for every child.
Some children talk easily while doing something with their hands. Others need time to feel comfortable before sharing much. Rylee can discuss how she adapts sessions and how you will review whether the approach is useful.
Why ages 8 and older?
Age 8+ describes the children Rylee currently offers this service to; it is not a guarantee that online therapy fits every child in that age group. Development, attention, communication, sensory needs, comfort with technology and available caregiver support all matter.
A child who enjoys online games may still find video appointments tiring. A child who is quiet on camera may become more comfortable with a slower start. The consultation helps you discuss these differences without having to decide on your own.
What do parents need to set up?
Start with a reliable internet connection, a camera and microphone, and a space where your child can participate with reasonable privacy. A larger screen may be easier for some interactive activities. Ask Rylee about device requirements before the first appointment.
You do not need to buy a playroom. Depending on the plan, simple materials such as paper, markers or familiar objects may be helpful. Wait for your clinician's suggestions rather than purchasing supplies in advance.
Talk through who will be nearby, how technical problems will be handled and how a caregiver can be reached if needed. Children must be physically in Colorado for sessions, and the clinician will discuss location and safety arrangements with you.
Will I be in the room with my child?
That depends on your child's needs and the treatment plan. Some appointments may involve a caregiver; others may include individual time for the child and separate parent conversations. Ask how consent, confidentiality and updates will work for your family.
Your observations are valuable. You can share what you see at home or school, what has changed and what your child finds helpful. Supporting therapy does not require watching every moment of a session or asking your child to report everything afterward.
When might another format be a better fit?
Virtual care has practical benefits, but privacy, technology and engagement can be barriers. If your child cannot participate comfortably, needs support that cannot be provided safely online or would benefit from in-person care, discuss other options. Changing the format is a care decision, not a failure by you or your child.
The National Institute of Mental Health encourages families to ask about a provider's approach and experience. During a consultation, ask Rylee how she would assess fit, work with caregivers and review progress.
Common questions about online counseling for kids
Is it just more screen time?
The purpose is a planned therapeutic interaction with a clinician. Activities are selected to support the work you and the clinician agree on, rather than simply keep your child occupied.
Does my child need a diagnosis first?
You can request a consultation to discuss your concerns without arriving with a diagnosis. Assessment and any insurance requirements can be reviewed during intake.
Can we use insurance?
Rylee accepts most major plans, including Medicaid, subject to verification. Ask about your child's specific plan, coverage for virtual services and any costs before treatment begins.
Explore whether virtual therapy fits your child
Tell Rylee about your child's age, what feels difficult and what you hope will change. In the secure portal, Rylee is preselected; choose “Light the Way Call” to request a consultation. Intake paperwork, insurance verification and a fit review come before ongoing sessions are scheduled.
Request a Child Consultation with Rylee
Meet Rylee and explore Colorado virtual therapy.
Further reading: NIMH: Getting Mental Health Support Virtually and NIMH: Children and Mental Health.